TRUE GRIT—MORE THAN A MASCOT Grit. It’s an attitude, defined by courage, resolve, and strength of character, that sits at the center of our indomitable UMBC spirit. That’s why we named our mascot True Grit. This aptly named Chesapeake Bay Retriever represents the values of our university: academics, community, wellness, and civic agency.
You know your WHY. We’ll show you HOW.
GREAT THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU’RE PART OF A COMMUNITY THAT SUPPORTS AND BELIEVES IN YOU. When you transfer to #RetrieverNation, you’ll work side by side with professors who are recognized nationally not only for their expertise, but for their commitment to undergraduate teaching.
You’ll discover that curiosity and determination know no limits at UMBC. Our collaborative culture both challenges and supports everyone to push boundaries and make big breakthroughs. Here, you’ll build the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in whatever you set out to do.
COLLEGE OF ARTS, HUMANITIES, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES
MAJORS AND PROGRAMS
Africana Studies
American Studies
Ancient Studies
Anthropology, Cultural
Art (see Visual Arts)
Asian Studies
Dance Economics
Education
- Early Childhood
- Elementary
- Secondary
Emergency and Disaster
Health Services
- Emergency and Disaster
Health Management
- Emergency Health
Leadership Paramedic
English Environmental Science and Geography
Financial Economics
Gender, Women’s, and Sexuality Studies
Geography and Environmental Studies
Global Studies
History
Media and Communication Studies
Modern Languages, Linguistics, and Intercultural Communication
- French
- German
- Russian
- Spanish
- Applied Linguistics
Music
- Jazz Studies
- Music Composition
- Music Education - Choral
- Music Education - Instrumental
- Music PerformanceInstrumental
- Music Performance - Vocal
- Music Technology
Philosophy
Political Science
Pre-Professional Programs
- Pre-Accounting
- Pre-Business
- Pre-Law
Psychology
Public Health
Religious Studies
Social Work
Sociology
Theatre
- Acting
- Design/Production
- Theatre Studies
Visual Arts
- Animation
- Graphic Design
- Photography and Cinema
- Print Media
- Visual Arts and Media
The COLLEGE OF ARTS, HUMANITIES, AND SOCIAL SCIENCES spans the disciplines, the centuries, and the globe. True to the liberal arts, we ask questions fundamental to human existence: Who are we? Where have we been? What matters? Through diverse, challenging programs of study, with countless opportunities for research, creative work, internships, and other co-curricular activities, our students develop skills and knowledge that prepare them for a variety of careers and a lifetime of thoughtful citizenship and leadership in a complex world.
Scan to learn more about the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences.
Embracing NEW BEGINNINGS Pam Voulalas ’24
Music
In her high school years, Pam Voulalas ’24 was a promising clarinetist, her heart set on studying music to land a coveted spot in a significant symphony orchestra. The realization of how infrequent these positions became available, however, led her to put her clarinet aside—a pause that lasted for 37 years.
After decades of scientific pursuits, Pam decided to pick up where she left off. She enrolled in a music theory class at Howard Community College (HCC) and found herself inextricably drawn towards the subject. That one theory class evolved into a challenging yet rewarding journey. After walking away with an associate degree in music performance from HCC, she continued on to graduate with her B.A. in music from UMBC.
Learn more about how Pam pursued her passion for music.
TRANSFER STUDENT ALLIANCE
The Transfer Student Alliance (TSA) is a member benefit program for Maryland community college students interested in transferring to UMBC. TSA members enjoy a number of benefits, including application fee waiver, at both UMBC and UMBC at the Universities at Shady Grove.
COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Did you know the UMBC-NASA partnership goes back two decades? Learn more about how UMBC scientists and student researchers launched the HARP2 instrument on NASA’s PACE mission by visiting the college’s website below.
MAJORS AND PROGRAMS
Business Technology
Administration
Chemical Engineering
– Biotechnology/Bioengineering
– Environmental Engineering and Sustainability
Computer Engineering
Computer Science
– Cybersecurity
– Data Science
– Game Development
Information Systems
– Management
Mechanical Engineering
Learn more about the College of Engineering and Information Technology.
The COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY is constantly asking what’s next, with our focus on research, innovation, and education. We create a space for our students that allows them to cross disciplines in both their research and their classes. As a result, our students become adept problem solvers who are poised to tackle modern technological challenges. In all that we do, we work to include diverse voices, conduct cutting-edge research, and prepare students to join a global workforce.
Discovering THE PERFECT PATH
An Dang ’24 Chemical Engineering
An made a bold transfer from Montgomery College, accompanied by a significant shift in her major from biology to chemical engineering. Despite being a transfer student in a new field, An didn’t let any obstacles hold her back. She immediately immersed herself in the activities of the Department of Chemical, Biochemical, and Environmental Engineering. In the same year, she played a significant role in organizing a major student conference led by the student chapter of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers—a first for the group. This fall, An will be heading to the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor to pursue her Ph.D.
Read about An’s transition to UMBC.
COMMUNITY COLLEGE PARTNERSHIPS
We welcome community college transfer students and have established strong collaborative relationships with many institutions to help streamline your transfer to UMBC.
Learn more about the College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences.
In the COLLEGE OF NATURAL AND MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES , we emphasize research experiences as teaching and learning tools and create opportunities for our students to work side by side with faculty, post-docs, and graduate students using state-of-the-art equipment. We create space for students to explore, testing various hypotheses and making personal discoveries. This work, combined with our emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, gives our students the chance to test the waters for future academic and career pursuits.
FROM RESEARCHING TO RESEARCHER: MENTORING IS KEY
At UMBC, you’ll find that your professors are more than lecturers—they’re mentors who will get to know you and work alongside you to help you achieve your goals. Mentors are able to create a safe environment where students can explore their interests in research and determine their path for the future. These mentors have a deep and long-lasting impact on the students who work with them, and the students’ creativity and fresh perspectives inspire their mentors.
An Inspiring Journey TO STEM Samuel Barnett ’25
Biochemistry
Samuel’s path wasn’t always clear. Facing a crossroads in his academic pursuit, Samuel was on the verge of leaving his education behind when he enrolled in Howard Community College. Samuel joined the BUILD a Bridge to STEM internship program. This program is part of the broader STEM BUILD initiative and, according to Samuel, played a crucial role in his journey toward becoming a Goldwater Scholar during his time at UMBC.
Read more about Samuel’s journey to STEM Research.
BUILD A BRIDGE TO STEM INTERNSHIP
This summer internship focuses on transfer students from a number of collaborating community colleges and institutions in Maryland. Qualified students participate in an eight-week research training program led by faculty during the summer. The goal is to give students interested in pursuing a four-year degree in biomedical and behavioral sciences experience in a research setting.
OTHER AREAS OF STUDY
THE ERICKSON SCHOOL OF AGING STUDIES
erickson.umbc.edu
The Erickson School's Management of Aging Studies program combines business management, public policy, and the study of human aging to prepare the next generation of leaders in the longevity market.
SOCIAL WORK PROGRAM
socialwork.umbc.edu
The Baccalaureate Social Work Program at UMBC is part of the University of Maryland’s School of Social Work. Students will build the skills and techniques they’ll need for a generalist practice focused on individuals, families, groups, and communities.
INDIVIDUALIZED STUDY PROGRAM
inds.umbc.edu
Our Individualized Study program gives students a chance to chart their own course as they design a major that allows them to explore multiple interests. Examples of degrees from recent graduates include prosthetic design, critical carceral studies, and holistic pediatric rehabilitation and care.
PRE-PROFESSIONAL PROGRAMS
UMBC offers a range of two-, three-, and four-year pre-professional programs designed to help our students propel themselves into allied health and other professional fields. Our programs include:
Pre-Accounting
Pre-Anesthesiologist
Assistant
Pre-Athletic Training
Pre-Business
Pre-Chiropractic Medicine
Pre-Dental
Hygiene
Pre-Dentistry
Pre-Law
Pre-Medical Research Technology
Pre-Medicine
Pre-Nursing
Pre-Occupational Therapy
Pre-Optometry
Pre-Pharmacy
Pre-Physical Therapy
Pre-Physician Assistant
Pre-Podiatry
Pre-Veterinary Medicine
UMBC AT THE UNIVERSITIES AT SHADY GROVE
shadygrove.umbc.edu
UMBC provides a unique environment for students to earn a degree in Montgomery County at The Universities at Shady Grove (USG), where we offer a curated selection of programs. Students who have as few as 45 college credits may be eligible to access UMBC’s best faculty, dynamic learning environment, and individualized advising, all without commuting to Baltimore.
ABOVE & BEYOND.
YOU WANT TO GO
WE’LL HELP YOU GET THERE.
MEET THE HONORS COLLEGE AT UMBC
In the Honors College, you’ll take classes and seminars that will help you cultivate your distinctive skills and abilities with some of our best professors alongside other students committed to intellectual inquiry.
DISCOVER OUR SCHOLARS PROGRAMS
We’ve built a unique set of programs with scholarships where you’ll find a supportive community that is focused on giving you a launchpad for your academic, career, and life goals.
Cyber Scholars: For students who are ready to take on the cybersecurity challenges of today and tomorrow.
Transfer Scholars in IT and Engineering (T-SITE): For incoming transfer students seeking faculty and peer mentorship to help build leadership skills, secure industry internships, and explore career options.
Sherman Teacher Scholars: Prepares students who have a desire to teach in high-needs and urban schools to become culturally responsive and compassionate educators who believe all children deserve a high quality education.
Charlotte W. Newcombe Scholars: For undergraduates over the age of 25 seeking their first undergraduate degree.
U-RISE Scholars: An undergraduate research training scholarship program for juniors and seniors, with the goal of increasing the number of students from underrepresented groups who pursue Ph.D. degrees and research careers in the biomedical sciences.
HONORS COLLEGE SEMINARS
Supplement your classes with unique and interdisciplinary seminars like:
Facts and Fiction of Exercise
Race, Poverty, and Gender in Baltimore
Disasters That Shaped Us
Criminal Justice
The Body in East Asia
You’ll Be Ready FOR CAREER SUCCESS
When you choose UMBC, you’re choosing a university with a reputation for preparing students for careers or graduate school.
90,000+ ALUMNI NETWORK AND CAREER PIPELINE
93% OF EMPLOYED UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE RECIPIENTS ARE IN POSITIONS DIRECTLY RELATED TO THEIR CAREER GOALS.
37 STATES 11 COUNTRIES GRADUATES WORKING IN + 54% OF STUDENTS EMPLOYED INTERNED AT THE PLACE THEY WORK
500+ EMPLOYER VISITS TO RECRUIT
WHERE YOU’LL MAKE AN IMPACT
We’ve forged strong relationships with top employers that will give you a pipeline for rich and engaging internships and careers. Here are just a few examples of the organizations who often recruit our students and alumni:
GET REAL-WORLD EXPERIENCE WITH INTERNSHIPS
UMBC helps you secure internships that will not only give you the chance to gain experience and contribute to companies and government agencies, but also help you make the connections you’ll need to secure a job aligned to your skills and interests.
UMBC STUDENT INTERNSHIP AND SERVICE FUND
UMBC created a special fund to provide stipends to students interested in unpaid internship and service opportunities as we know taking unpaid internships can cause obstacles and sacrifice for many students.
UMBC Can TAKE YOU PLACES
If you’re looking to embark on a career in academia and scholarship that takes you to grad school and beyond, UMBC will help you get there. Many of our students continue their studies, pursuing master’s and doctoral degrees and professions. Some also earn prestigious scholarships that take them around the U.S. and the world as they attend graduate school and conduct research.
REACHING TOGETHER: UMBC PROVIDES SUPPORT FOR PRESTIGIOUS SCHOLARSHIPS
We support our students in their pursuit of internationally renowned scholarships. In the past few years we’ve celebrated two UMBC students who were named Rhodes Scholars and eight named Goldwater Scholars.
CONTINUING OUR FULBRIGHT LEGACY
David Bullman ’22, ancient studies, has a unique background of serving as a musician and public diplomat in the U.S. Army. After graduating, he headed to North Macedonia to teach English to college students. David is among 85 alumni and students who have received the Fulbright U.S. Student Program awards.
UMBC’S NEWEST GATES CAMBRIDGE SCHOLAR
Christopher Slaughter ‘23, computer engineering, is the fifth student from UMBC to win a Gates Cambridge Scholarship to pursue graduate work at the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom.
Discover Yourself THROUGH RESEARCH
We believe that research is an important key to making big change in our world. That’s why UMBC is among only 146 institutions in the nation that have reached the highest level of research performance known as R1 (Research 1). We create unparalleled opportunities for you to get involved in our labs and research projects here on campus. Working alongside professors and graduate students, you’ll lead the design and implementation of creative and challenging research projects. That independence will propel you forward as you develop your identity as a researcher.
“ Having undergraduates in the lab has extended our capability to ask more complex questions than we would otherwise take on.”
— PROFESSOR CHUCK BIEBERICH, BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
HOW YOU’LL MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Our students research and publish across every academic discipline, and they make real discoveries and change in the world as a result. See some of their recent work in UMBC Review, a peer-reviewed publication, completely directed by UMBC undergraduate students.
UNDERGRADUATE RESEARCH AWARDS
Students at UMBC can receive up to $1,500 to support their research, scholarship, or creative work with a UMBC faculty mentor on an original project.
From Day One, WE SUPPORT YOU
WELCOMING TRANSFER STUDENTS TO CAMPUS
We’ve created a variety of transfer orientation programs to get you started on the right foot and help you meet your fellow transfer students.
TRANSFER SEMINARS
We offer unique courses for incoming transfer students to help them navigate a new university. These seminars will help you connect quickly with your college and move forward with your academic planning.
TRANSFER STUDENT NETWORK
The Transfer Student Network (TSN) is here to help you adjust to a new campus. Membership includes monthly 1:1 mentor check-ins, free events and trips, and access to campus resources and transfer student workshops.
JOIN OUR T.E.A.M.
The Transfer Engagement and Achievement Mentoring (T.E.A.M.) program is dedicated to increasing the persistence and retention of underrepresented male students at UMBC, with emphasis on Black men, through a renewed sense of self and development of leadership skills.
TAU SIGMA NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY
This honor society was created specifically for transfer students to recognize and promote their academic excellence and involvement. Our UMBC chapter provides a chance to bond with other transfer students through networking and social events.
You’ll Play
AS HARD AS YOU WORK
You’re sure to find something on campus to do among our many clubs, student organizations, and sports teams. Maybe you want to play a game of basketball or take a fitness class at the Retriever Activities Center? No matter your interest, we’ll keep you moving in pursuit of an active and balanced life.
RETRIEVER ACTIVITIES CENTER (RAC)
The Retriever Activities Center is home to weight rooms, cardio spaces, outdoor and indoor pools, basketball and tennis courts, and more. The RAC staff offers over 30 group fitness and cycling classes, virtual classes, and personal training.
250 CLUBS AND ORGANIZATIONS
You’ll find students interested in everything from food, culture, and the arts to athletics, anime, engineering, world politics, and more.
17 NCAA DIVISION I SPORTS TEAMS
MEN’S
Baseball
Basketball
Cross Country
Lacrosse
Soccer
Swimming and Diving
Track and Field
WOMEN’S
Softball
Basketball
Cross Country
Lacrosse
Soccer
Swimming and Diving
Track and Field
Volleyball
30+ CLUB AND INTRAMURAL SPORTS TEAMS
Whether you are looking for a way to get to know students or test yourself in a competitive environment, UMBC offers a number of options for students.
You’ll Explore THE WORLD
ROVING RETRIEVERS
In the last year alone, UMBC students have enjoyed a study abroad experience in many cities around the world, including:
Cape Town, South Africa
Chiang Mai, Thailand
Granada, Spain
Kyoto, Japan
Lima, Peru
London, England
Melbourne, Australia
Milan, Italy
Nairobi, Kenya
Paris, France
Rabat, Morocco
Rome, Italy
San Jose, Costa Rica
Santiago, Chile
Seoul, South Korea
Tampere, Finland
At UMBC, the world is—quite literally—your classroom. Learn about new cultures and governments. Test your research chops in an on-site archaeology lab. Explore art and literature in the places they were created. Whatever you choose, it’s sure to be an amazing experience.
WORRIED YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO STUDY ABROAD?
Most students can use some or all of their financial aid and scholarships toward their experience overseas.
LEARNING THROUGH SERVICE
Service and volunteerism are inextricably woven into our Retriever culture. All students can find unique and meaningful ways to get involved, learn about social issues, build skills, and act intentionally to better local and global communities. Service at UMBC is a gateway to deep, lifelong involvement in solving social problems and making meaningful, sustainable contributions.
WHERE OUR STUDENTS SERVE
Our students participate in service learning throughout the Baltimore and Washington, D.C., region, working with animals, children, immigrants, and patients in programs such as:
– Baltimore Animal Rescue and Care Shelter (BARCS)
– Esperanza Center
– The Choice Program
– Creative Coders
– Ascension Saint Agnes Hospital
Welcome to Your New Home
AWAY FROM HOME
Our residence halls and apartments are the perfect place to start. You’ll love the independence of living on your own and the convenience of being close to class, campus life, academic opportunities, and recreational activities each day.
DINING ON CAMPUS
Offering cuisine from around the world to standard fare, a variety of food can be found in our 17 restaurants all around campus, with many options to meet your dietary needs. And when you are looking for a change of scenery, you can explore dozens of restaurants near campus.
TRANSFER COMMUNITY
Transfer students may have the option to live in our residence halls, suites, or apartments depending on their number of completed credits.
TRANSPORTATION
With over 300 stops, UMBC Transit provides a free, convenient, and green alternative for commuters and the residential population of UMBC. We also offer Transit Tracker, a web-enabled, GPS tool that provides real-time location information for riders.
HEALTH AND WELL-BEING
Retriever Integrated Health (RIH) blends physical and mental health services to provide a collaborative and holistic approach to support your well-being and success. Our team is committed to providing the UMBC community with high-quality services, support, and resources.
CAMPUS SAFETY
UMBC is committed to keeping you and the community safe. UMBC’s Police Department provides police service 24 hours a day throughout the year. In addition, UMBC offers UMBC Alerts using our text notification system to provide updates and safety information.
Financing YOUR EDUCATION
Financing your education is an important step, and that’s why we offer a wide range of financial aid and scholarships.
COST OF ATTENDANCE: LIVING ON CAMPUS (2024 — 2025)*
* Each student’s individual costs may vary based upon courses, housing, and meal plan selection. Costs are subject to change with Board of Regents approval.
NEED-BASED FINANCIAL AID
Financial aid programs are available and awarded in three categories: grants, loans, and employment. The Office of Financial Aid will prepare a financial aid package for eligible students which may consist of one or more of these types of aid to assist in meeting a student’s financial needs. Learn
Spring Priority Deadline: December 1
Fall Priority Deadline: March 1
UMBC was named a 2024 Best Value University by U.S. News and World Report.
MERIT SCHOLARSHIPS
UMBC offers competitive merit scholarships to incoming community college transfer students, which do not require a separate application. Scholarships are awarded based on academic accomplishment, program membership, and timely completion of the admissions application. To be eligible for a transfer scholarship, applicants should have 30 or more credits completed at the time of admission application; priority consideration is given to students completing an associate's degree prior to transfer.
Preparing for a SUCCESSFUL TRANSFER
UMBC created a variety of resources and tools to help you navigate your transfer smoothly and with confidence.
TRANSFER CENTRAL
We know the three most asked questions regarding transfer are: How will my credits transfer? How long will it take to graduate? And, how much will it cost? That’s why UMBC created Transfer Central, an interactive tool that will give you real-time credit estimates, best fit major recommendations,and access to important dates, milestones, and transfer resources that you’ll need along the way.
TRANSFER STUDENT ALLIANCE
The Transfer Student Alliance (TSA) is a member benefit program for Maryland community college students interested in transferring to UMBC. From day one, our TSA members enjoy a number of benefits at both UMBC and UMBC at the Universities at Shady Grove.
MEMBER BENEFITS INCLUDE:
$75 transfer application fee waiver
25% tuition discount for one concurrent UMBC course per semester
Guaranteed annual merit scholarship for up to two years
Guaranteed on-campus housing
Priority advising and registration at New Student Orientation
PRE-TRANSFER ADVISING
Our pre-transfer advisors are here to support transfer students and connect them to services and resources to help smooth the transition to UMBC. To discuss transfer academic plans such as UMBC graduation requirements, transfer credits, and major requirements, book an appointment with a UMBC pre-transfer advisor.
Learn more about these services.
2023 TRANSFER STUDENT PROFILE
1,129
INCOMING TRANSFER STUDENT ENROLLMENT
3.10 AVERAGE GPA 52.4% MEN 47.6% WOMEN
INCOMING TRANSFER STUDENT ENROLLMENT
• African American 23%
• Asian American 16%
• Hispanic 14%
• International 4%
• Other 8%
• White 34%
IMPORTANT DEADLINES
Fall Admission to UMBC and the Honors College at UMBC
Priority Deadline: March 1
Regular Deadline: June 1
Spring Admission to UMBC and the Honors College at UMBC
Priority Deadline: October 15
Regular Deadline: December 1 QUESTIONS? Contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and Orientation at admissions@umbc.edu or 410-455-2292 We can’t wait to hear from you!
Schedule a visit.
So What’s
VISIT UMBC
You can get a great sense of life as a Retriever without even setting foot on campus. We’ve curated a number of videos, photos, and a 360 tour of campus.
Prefer in person? Join us on campus for a tour or information session, offered most weekdays and Saturdays, and meet with an admissions representative to learn more about our admissions requirements, scholarships, academic programs, and more.
University of Maryland, Baltimore County 1000 Hilltop Circle Baltimore, Maryland 21250
